Frankie Muniz is currently competing full-time in the NASCAR Truck Series, marking his first full season in the sport. The former actor turned racecar driver remains dedicated to racing, despite facing criticism from some who label him a mere weekend participant. Muniz has balanced his racing career with other commitments, including filming a reunion miniseries of Malcolm in the Middle, thanks to NASCAR’s schedule not being active every weekend. Rumors suggesting that Muniz uses his acting earnings to fund his racing have been firmly denied by the driver himself.
I don’t spend any of my money going racing,
Muniz said.
I made a promise to my wife that I would not do that. So, I can kill that rumor right there.
Kyle Larson’s Support for Muniz and His Potential in NASCAR
Kyle Larson, the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has stepped forward to defend Muniz against doubters. Larson, who began his career in the truck series in 2012, believes Muniz has genuine talent and rightful place in NASCAR. Emphasizing the skill level required to compete in any NASCAR national series, Larson insists that every driver on the track deserves their spot based on ability.
Anybody racing in any of the three series has talent and ability enough to be there,
Larson said.
Larson expressed hope that Muniz will eventually find himself with a stronger team and equipment, allowing his abilities to shine more clearly. He stressed the positive impact Muniz’s success could have on the sport overall.
I just hope that he can get into a situation someday where you can really see his talent from being in a car or a truck that is better equipped to go run towards the front,
Larson said.
You want to see him succeed because if he does succeed, it’s only going to do good things for our sport.
Muniz’s Performance and Current Team Situation in the NASCAR Truck Series
At 39 years old, Frankie Muniz is still adjusting to the demands of full-time NASCAR competition. After 16 races this season, he ranks 24th in the points standings, with his best finish being 10th place at the season opener held at Daytona International Speedway. Muniz has prior success in the ARCA Menards Series, where he finished fourth in the overall points in 2023, showing promise in stock car racing.
Currently, Muniz drives the No. 33 Ford for Reaume Brothers Racing, a relatively small team in the Truck Series. Team owner Josh Reaume has spoken openly about the high costs of competing in NASCAR, noting that a competitive truck can exceed $3.5 million for a full 25-race season.
The Importance of Muniz’s Progression for NASCAR’s Future
Kyle Larson’s defense of Muniz highlights the broader challenge new drivers face in the sport, especially those coming from unconventional backgrounds like Hollywood. Larson’s encouragement points to the importance of access to better resources and equipment, which he hopes Muniz can secure soon. Success for Muniz in NASCAR could bring fresh attention and new fans to the series, strengthening its long-term appeal.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Kyle Larson better than Verstappen?
A. While Larson may not defeat Verstappen in F1, he stands out for his versatility, surpassing anyone else globally. Bianchi notes that Larson’s wide-ranging achievements make him notable. He is actively securing victories across many different car types.
Q. What caused Kyle Larson to crash?
A. After that, a crash occurred with Ryan Blaney, Chase Briscoe, and Daniel Suarez as they went three-wide ahead of Larson at Turn 4. They collided. Suarez spun across the track and hit the right rear of Larson’s car. Larson continued in the damaged car.
